Judge Gives Preliminary Approval to $7.25 Billion Roundup Settlement as Opt-Outs Are Expected
A judge has given preliminary approval to Bayer’s proposed $7.25 billion settlement, which aims to resolve tens of thousands of Roundup lawsuits claiming that exposure to the weed killer led to non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
On Wednesday, St. Louis City Circuit Judge Timothy Boyer signed an order, moving the settlement to the next phase of the legal process. The agreement, negotiated between Bayer and several plaintiffs’ law firms, is meant to resolve both current and future claims related to Roundup cancer injuries.
With preliminary approval, class members will be notified about the proposal and given 90 days, until June 4, 2026, to decide whether to participate, file an objection, or formally opt out of the class. A fairness hearing is set for July 9 to decide if the settlement should receive final approval.
In mass tort cases like this, each plaintiff must choose to accept the settlement’s terms or opt out if they want to continue their claims separately. Those who do not opt out will be bound by the settlement if the court gives final approval.
Opt-Outs and Legal Challenges Expected
Many law firms and claimants are expected to opt out of the Roundup settlement, indicating disagreement with key aspects of the deal.
Last week, a group of plaintiffs’ attorneys representing almost 20,000 claimants asked for more time to review the settlement and fully evaluate the legal implications for their clients. They argued that the settlement might not fairly compensate all injured parties.
These firms say that some plaintiffs were not properly represented during the negotiations and that the compensation plan could leave some groups of claimants at a disadvantage.
Their filings highlight the tension that can arise in mass tort settlements when individual interests differ from the group agreement.
Settlement Terms and What Happens Next
Bayer, which still denies that Roundup causes cancer, said the settlement is a long-term, well-funded plan to end years of litigation.
Under the proposal, Bayer must also set aside money for administrative and notification costs, and the company can withdraw from the deal if not enough claimants choose to participate.
During this process, attorneys and claimants can submit objections or opt out before the fairness hearing.
Those who opt out retain the right to file their own lawsuits rather than accept settlement benefits. Some attorneys believe this will be necessary because they disagree with how the settlement divides compensation.
If too many plaintiffs opt out, the settlement could fall through.
At the July fairness hearing, the court will evaluate whether the settlement is fair, reasonable and adequate for those who remain in the class.
